Porsche Strikes Back!

Tue 21 Mar 2017

Merging tradition with visionary technology, Porsche’s new mid-engine sports cars, the 718 Cayman and 718 Boxster were launched by Porsche India in New Delhi recently. Utilising a custom built track, the two-seater sports cars delighted guests with a driving display that showcased the performance capabilities of both models.

Idea 718

The new Boxster and Cayman are the sequel that continue the 718 era. At their heart, a four-cylinder turbocharged boxer engine beats with the same fighting spirit that delivered countless podium finishes. In them lives the will to break with standards, and to inspire conviction. So it is entirely appropriate that they too should bear these three digits in their name and carry the 718 legend forward.

Compared with the previous models, the result is a new, decidedly more striking design, an even sportier chassis setup, and a host of new performance, comfort, and assistance systems. And, of course, up to 350 units of turbocharged horsepower (257 kW) – despite a considerable reduction in fuel consumption.

Exterior design

The exterior design of the new 718 models ushers in a new era for the Boxster and Cayman with sporty, distinctive edges, and clearly defined formal contours.

The horizontal geometry of the air intakes makes the front end appear even wider and lends it an added bite. The wings are unmistakably Porsche. Higher than the front lid, they have been styled to give prominence to the new design of the headlight units, which lay bare their inner workings and incorporate the LED daytime running lights.

The side profile emphasises the mid engine layout. The wheel arches are large, designed for wheels up to 20 inches in size. One thing is clear: the new 718 models were not intended for the shelter of the garage, but for the pleasure of driving.

Interior design
A strong emphasis on the horizontal gives the new dashboard design of the 718 models a striking appearance. Motorsport in pure form: the new sports steering wheel is derived from the 918 Spyder. The optional GT sports steering wheel, with its smaller diameter, further enhances the cockpit feel.

The new and fundamentally revised version of Porsche Communication Management (PCM) features a 7 inch multi-touch screen. With its high-quality glass surface, it is the aesthetically perfect addition to the centre console.

The principle of the mid-engine sports car

What is it that makes the new 718 models so special? Their performance, handling, design, and the generous amount of space afforded by two luggage compartments. Above all – a mid-engine concept that makes all this possible in the first place.

The engine is positioned no further than 30 cm behind the driver. Effect number one: the resounding thump on the back. Effect number two: the extraordinarily dynamic cornering capabilities, thanks to the car’s low and central centre of gravity. The horizontally opposed arrangement of the engine’s cylinders also helps to reduce oscillations, which has a positive impact on smooth running. Another plus for driving dynamics is the concentrated power of the engine that is transmitted directly to the rear axle. --- Source: Porsche Press

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